Who We Are
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Our Philosophy
At Subtext, we believe that beneath the surface of our daily struggles lie stories of resilience, empowerment, and strength. Our therapists work together with you to collaboratively explore your thoughts, emotions, and experiences, working towards positive growth and empowering you with tools to navigate life's challenges. Your progress and healing are our shared goals.
Our therapy practice is dedicated to creating a safe and affirming space for individuals of all abilities, embracing and respecting the diverse identities of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community, and supporting the unique needs of BIPOC populations. Your well-being and identity are valued here.
Nicole Kristensen, BSW RSW
Registered Social Worker, Psychotherapist
Registered with OCSWSSW | Member of OASW
In my experience as a social worker and psychotherapist, I’ve come to understand the incredible importance of tapping into the innate wisdom and resilience that each person possesses. You are the expert of your own life. I provide trauma-informed counselling and psychotherapy to adults in person at our Stoney Creek office, and Online across Ontario. I’ve honed my counselling skills through specialized training and research in areas including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), Polyvagal Theory, and Mindfulness-based approaches. I use an eclectic approach utilizing a range of therapeutic modalities in my practice.
I value the bravery it takes for individuals to share their stories, and I work from a client-centered approach. Together we will work collaboratively towards your goals, and move towards healing and growth.
I work with individuals aged 18+, and my areas of focus include:
- Depression & Anxiety
- Chronic Pain
- Mindfulness & Meditation
- Navigating Life Transitions
- Stress Management & Burnout
- Resilience and Post-Traumatic Growth
Rates: Individual Sessions In Person or Online: $135 per 50 minutes.
Many extended health plans cover the services of a Registered Social Worker. Please check with your provider to ensure they cover RSW services. I will always issue a receipt after every session that you can submit to your provider for reimbursement should they cover RSW services. If your benefits booklet specifies “MSW” my services will not be covered.
Sara Schafer, MSW RSW
Registered Social Worker, Psychotherapist
Registered with OCSWSSW | Member of OASW
As a social worker and psychotherapist, I approach all of my work from an anti-oppressive perspective. I strive to create a non-judgmental and welcoming space for individuals to feel comfortable and safe sharing their experiences. I focus on building strong, genuine connections with clients and working collaboratively toward their self-identified goals. I know that every individual is different with their own unique story, and therefore I draw from various modalities to explore and get a better understanding of the thoughts, feelings, and emotions that are impacting you.
I have training in various therapeutic modalities including Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Dialectical Behavioural Therapy, Emotion-Focused Family Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Emotion-Focused Therapy. I provide in-person appointments at our Stoney Creek office, and Online across Ontario.
I work with individuals aged 12 + and my areas of focus include:
- Anxiety and Low Mood
- Trauma and Resiliency
- Stress Management and Burnout
- Parent-Child Relational Difficulties
- Perinatal Mental Health including postpartum depression, anxiety, birth trauma, and transition to parenthood
Rates: Individual Sessions In Person or Online: $150 per 50 minutes.
Many extended health plans cover the services of a Registered Social Worker. Please check with your provider to ensure they cover RSW services. I will always issue a receipt after every session that you can submit to your provider for reimbursement should they cover RSW services.